Blue, a defenseman, played under legendary coach Don Brose at MSU from 1991-95 and was a part of the program when lobbying efforts for the Civic Center to be built were going full speed ahead. Brose, Blue and his teammates were among the community members who helped to drum up support for the half-percent sales tax that was and is used for the construction and upkeep of the arena that opened in February of 1995.
“Unbelievable. When you talk about passion for the program and moving into this rink, he’s told the stories of going door-to-door to get this arena done,” current MSU associate head coach Todd Knott said to The Rink Live, about Blue, back in late March. “And now as a coach, the amount of work he’s done with alumni and all the little details, his prints are all over this, in terms of making this place our home.”
Minnesota State Mavericks Season Review
Following this accomplishment, the Mavericks won their first NCAA game in school history, defeating Quinnipiac in overtime. They shut out Minnesota University in the NCAA West Final and reached the Frozen Four for the first time.
Minnesota State eventually fell to St. Cloud, as a goal late in regulation would end the Mavericks hopes of advancing. This season, filled with quarantines, uncertainty, and unprecedented success, was one for the history books. Future Minnesota State University teams will be sure to try and model this one.
The Players
Photo Credit: Ashley Potts, special to The Free Press
A Look at Minnesota State with Assistant Coach Darren Blue
The Minnesota State Mavericks are a leading force in men’s college hockey. Based out of Mankato, Minnesota, Minnesota State is one of the five schools located in the state competing in Division I college hockey. Former Minnesota State player and current assistant coach, Darren Blue, has forged a winning culture at the program and helped young talent find success following their college years.
He has been apart of Minnesota State’s coaching staff since the 2000-01 season, following a few years coaching at Chicago Lakes High School from 1996-99.